Ethical urban AI in practice: policy mechanisms to establish local governance frameworks

CIDOB Monographs 89

Artificial intelligence (AI) promises to revolutionise urban spaces, offering solutions to the most significant urban challenges humanity faces today. Cities serve as ideal testing grounds for AI, with local governments adopting data-driven technologies to automate routine tasks, improve efficiency and make cost-effective decisions. However, the rapid deployment of algorithmic systems raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding citizens’ rights and environmental and social impacts. Responsible AI governance is critical to avoid unintended negative consequences while reaping the benefits this technology can deliver. Cities that are already implementing ethical AI policies can provide valuable examples for others, highlighting the need for local policymakers to adopt approaches that prioritise ethical, transparent and inclusive AI deployment. 

With that in mind, CIDOB presents this monograph, exploring specific policy mechanisms and existing governance frameworks that promote responsible urban AI on the ground. First, it analyses how essential ethical principles – namely (1) accountability and transparency; (2) privacy and data protection; (3) fairness and non-discrimination; and (4) sustainability – can be effectively implemented in urban environments through targeted policy measures. Then, it presents case studies of cities worldwide that have established comprehensive AI governance frameworks. Ultimately, this CIDOB Monograph aims to serve as a practical document that can inspire action and guide other local public sector actors on the long road ahead to guaranteeing ethical deployment of urban AI.

Publication content:

About the authors

Abstracts part I

Introduction. Ethical urban AI in practice 
Tanya Álvarez, Marta Galceran-Vercher and Alexandra Vidal D’oleo

PART I. OPERATIONALISATION OF ETHICAL PRINCIPLES 
IN URBAN SETTINGS

Shazade Jameson
Accountability and transparency in urban AI

Josuan Eguiluz Castañeira and Carlos Fernández Hernández
Privacy and data governance in urban AI

Leandry Junior Jieutsa
Fairness and non-discrimination in urban AI

María Pérez-Ortiz
Sustainability in urban AI

PART II. CASE STUDIES OF URBAN AI GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORKS
Alexandra Vidal D’oleo

Case study 1: Barcelona 
Case study 2: Amsterdam 
Case study 3: New York 
Case study 4: San José 
Case study 5: Dubai 
Case study 6: Singapore

Conclusions. Policy mechanisms, challenges and recommendations in urban AI
Marta Galceran-Vercher and Alexandra Vidal D’ole